Patrick J. Higgins, 50, president of P.J. Higgins & Associates in Frederick, Md., died suddenly of a pulmonary embolism on Nov. 28. For the past 20 years his company has provided consulting services on plumbing codes, standards, product approval and regulatory approval to numerous industry companies and trade organizations. He was also a licensed plumber.

His firm participates in the development of model and state plumbing codes and is liaison to industry committees, including ASPE, ASSE and PHCC. He also authored many publications and wrote for various trade magazines.

"Pat Higgins was one of the plumbing industry's most dedicated citizens," said Jim Olsztynski, editor of Supply House Times. "He made as many friends in this industry as anyone I've known."